#USA #Seattle #Harm Reduction #Washington Poison Center #Overdose Awareness

Equipping Communities Amid Resource Constraints

The Washington Poison Center (WAPC) is set to host its 6th Annual Overdose Awareness Series this August, aiming to connect community members, health professionals, and social service providers. In a time when overdose trends are alarming, particularly with the rise of synthetic opioids like fentanyl, the series aims to share effective strategies for prevention and harm reduction, especially amidst resource limitations.

Scheduled to occur virtually every Tuesday in August on the 5th, 12th, 19th, and 26th, each session will offer an opportunity to deepen understanding around this critical public health issue. Participants can expect to hear from a diverse range of speakers, including medical experts from WAPC, representatives from various health organizations, and frontline responders from harm reduction initiatives. The 2025 series is designed not only to address current trends in overdoses but also to provide innovative, evidence-based strategies for mitigating risks even when resources are scarce.

Dr. Scott Phillips, CEO of WAPC, articulated the pressing need for such a series, commenting on the fluctuating landscape of overdose situations in Washington State. “With synthetic opioids leading the charge in overdose mortality, communities require practical frameworks for action,” said Dr. Phillips. “This series equips providers and organizations with tools that are implementable under tight resource constraints.”

A Collaborative Effort

The series promotes collaboration among various stakeholders, recognizing the multifaceted approach needed to combat overdose crises. Experts from other U.S. poison control centers, the Washington State Department of Health, the University of Washington, and local health jurisdictions will share their insights and expertise. Each session is designed to walk participants through practical interventions that can help significantly reduce overdose risks in their communities.

By attending the series, participants will gain valuable insights that can be applied in various settings, including clinical care, public health, and educational environments. The overall goal is to arm professionals and community members with knowledge and resources that empower them to act effectively against the ongoing overdose crisis.

Free Access and Support

To ensure the accessibility of this series, WAPC is grateful to its sponsors and partners, including the We Work for Health Coalition of Washington State, the Washington Health Care Authority, and several community health initiatives. Their generous support helps keep this series free of charge for all who wish to participate.

As the series approaches, interested individuals are encouraged to register and explore the agenda. This is an invaluable opportunity to gain actionable tools, foster essential conversations, and become a part of the solution in addressing the overdose epidemic.

Stay tuned to the Washington Poison Center’s communications for the latest information and updates related to this vital initiative and to learn how you can make a difference in your community. Visit WAPC's website to register and view the full program agenda for this year's series.

Together, we can combat the challenges posed by overdose in our communities, even in times when resources are tight.